Heart Disease: The Leading Cause of Premature Death in Australia
Heart disease remains the leading cause of premature death in Australia 💔. Despite this, there is a lot of misinformation on social media about cholesterol, LDL, and heart disease, often spread by doctors who promote keto or carnivore diets.
Common Misunderstandings About Cholesterol
Here are some key facts to clear up common misunderstandings:
1️⃣ What is LDL? LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein, which is cholesterol attached to a protein called Apo B. This protein allows LDL to enter the lining of artery walls, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes[1].
2️⃣ High LDL and Heart Disease High LDL levels cause heart disease. Coronary artery disease from atherosclerosis cannot occur without LDL. Therefore, managing LDL is crucial. Claims that high LDL does not increase heart disease risk if other lipids are normal are false[1].
3️⃣ Cholesterol Levels There is no level of serum cholesterol that is too low. While we need fat in our diet, claims that lowering cholesterol is harmful because our brains need cholesterol or our endocrine organs need it to make hormones are false. Cholesterol from the blood does not cross the blood-brain barrier, and brain cells make all the cholesterol they need[1].
4️⃣ LDL and Dementia LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for dementia. This was recently highlighted in a recommendation published in “The Lancet.” Medications that lower cholesterol are associated with a decreased risk of dementia[2][3].
5️⃣ High HDL and Heart Disease High HDL, or “good cholesterol,” is not protective against heart disease and does not negate the risk of high LDL. While very low HDL is an independent risk factor for heart disease, having high amounts is not protective and may even increase heart disease risk. Drug studies that increased HDL have repeatedly failed to show protection[4][5].
6️⃣ Heart Disease in Women Heart disease remains the main cause of premature death in women[6].
Making Informed Decisions
It’s important to have accurate information about cholesterol and heart disease. If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels or heart health, discuss them with your doctor to make informed decisions about your health. 💔